The Challenge Foundation

As a founding partner, St. Mary’s Academy is honored to house The Challenge Foundation as an independent organization with its own staff, values, and very powerful mission statement: “Beginning in the sixth grade, Challenge Foundation provides rigorous academics, enrichment and support to high potential, disadvantaged students to empower them to graduate from college and make a positive impact on their communities.”

The Challenge Foundation sends many scholars to St. Mary’s Academy beginning in Grade 6. Students become a part of St. Mary’s Academy and benefit from the extraordinary academic and enrichment programs available. Challenge Scholars also receive support including, mentoring, tutoring, assistance with transportation, technology, and a summer program.

The first graduates of Challenge Foundation and St. Mary’s Academy are now college graduates, and many more students are following that path. St. Mary’s Academy is proud of everyone involved and thankful to be a part of the students’ journey. 

Learn More About the Challenge Foundation

The St. Mary’s Academy community is richer thanks to our close proximity and partnership with The Challenge Foundation. We see the Loretto values in action through the work that the foundation does.